Intern, University of Minnesota

Institution: University of Minnesota – Twin Cities

Principal Investigators: Dr. Ruth Shaw & Dr. Mason Kulbaba

Program Dates: 6/4/2018 – 8/10/2018

Description: Dr. Ruth Shaw’s Research Group in the Dept. of Ecology,
Evolution & Behavior at the University of Minnesota is seeking
applicants for an NSF Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU)
position in summer 2018 to study the process of ongoing adaptation in
experimental populations of partridge pea (Chamaecrista fasciculata) in
prairie habitat. The student will work closely with Dr. Ruth Shaw and
Dr. Mason Kulbaba to develop an independent project in the area of plant
evolutionary genetics, with possibilities ranging from studies of
heritability and phenotypic selection on plant traits to studies of
pollination ecology and mating system variation. The student will gain
invaluable experience in performing field work and in conducting an
independent research project, from hypothesis formulation through oral
and written dissemination of results, as grounding for future work in
inquiry-based research. The student must be a U.S. citizen or permanent
resident and enrolled as an undergraduate for Fall 2018. The ideal
candidate should enjoy working outdoors and have an interest in learning
about the evolution and ecology of plants in the Midwest prairies, and
candidates planning to pursue a graduate career in evolution, ecology,
or conservation biology are particularly well-suited for this position.
The REU intern will receive a stipend of $5,500 and an allowance for
room and board in the Twin Cities (with occasional overnight travel to
field sites). Costs of travel to and from the Twin Cities will also be
provided. The deadline to apply for this position is February 21, 2018,
and the 10-week internship is expected to begin on Monday, June 4 and
end on Friday, August 10. Please contact Mason Kulbaba
(mkulbaba@umn.edu) for more information. The University of Minnesota
provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities,
and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national
origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance
status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender
expression. Individuals of underrepresented groups are especially
encouraged to apply. Please forward this advertisement to any interested
and qualified undergraduates.

To apply, please e-mail the following application materials to Mason
Kulbaba (mkulbaba@umn.edu) with the subject line “REU” no later than
February 21, 2018:
1. A statement explaining the following: why you are interested in this
position, what are your future plans, dates you are available to start
and end this position, confirm eligibility for the REU program, the name
and contact information of the person who will serve as your reference,
your e-mail address and phone number.
2. Resume.
3. Transcript (unofficial is acceptable.)
4. One letter of recommendation (sent by your reference).